The Latest News & Updates

Cuba’s bishops are set to meet with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican from February 16 to 20. They plan to discuss the various challenges, sorrows, joys, and hopes of the Church in Cuba. This meeting is expected to provide the Pope with an in-depth understanding of the current state of the Catholic Church in the Caribbean nation.

In Zambia, the country’s bishops have issued an instruction to the clergy and the faithful, urging them to refrain from partisan politics. They emphasized that the Church should never serve as a mouthpiece for any political party or candidate. This directive comes amidst a politically charged environment in the country, and the bishops aim to maintain the Church’s neutrality and focus on spiritual matters.

Canadian Catholic bishops are supporting a legislative push to restrict medical aid in dying. They issued a statement on February 5 backing Bill C-218, which aims to prevent individuals whose only medical condition is mental illness from accessing physician-assisted suicide. This move aligns with the Church’s long-standing position on the sanctity of life.

In Denver, the incoming archbishop has pledged to listen to God’s will and act accordingly. This follows the Holy See’s announcement on February 7 that Pope Francis has accepted the resignation of Archbishop Samuel Aquila. The new archbishop’s commitment to divine guidance is expected to shape his leadership of the archdiocese.

In response to the freezing temperatures affecting many parts of the U.S., a Knights of Columbus council has launched an initiative called “Hoodies from Heaven”. This initiative aims to provide warmth to children in need by distributing hoodies, demonstrating the Church’s commitment to charitable works and community support.

Archbishop Ronald Hicks has assumed leadership of the Archdiocese of New York. In his address to the congregation, Hicks expressed his commitment to serving in the likeness of Christ, promising to walk with, serve, and proclaim Jesus Christ to his new flock. He emphasized his intention to be a good shepherd to the people of the Archdiocese.

The U.S. government has announced a second shipment of humanitarian aid, valued at $6 million, to Cuba. This aid will be distributed directly to the Cuban population through the Catholic Church. This move is part of the U.S. government’s ongoing efforts to support the Cuban people amidst the country’s economic challenges.

Bishop Kevin Doran of Achonry and Elphin in Ireland has raised concerns about the impact of abortion on the country’s population. He stated that the equivalent of ‘300 classes of primary school children’ have been lost to abortion in a single year. This statement was part of a broader discussion on pro-life issues and abortion-related news in the country.

Pope Leo XIV recently held a meeting with Andrea Riccardi, the founder of the Sant’Egidio Community. The two discussed the role that Christians and the Church are expected to play in promoting peace amid various global conflicts. The Sant’Egidio Community is a Catholic lay association dedicated to social service, dialogue, and peace.

Mike Hammer, the chargé d’affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Cuba, has been conducting visits across the island, meeting with bishops, opposition figures, and local residents. These meetings are part of the U.S. government’s efforts to engage with various facets of Cuban society and understand the challenges they face.

The Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica are parting ways with Benedictine College due to an aging community and increased demands. The Sisters have been a part of the college since its inception in 1858, providing both spiritual and educational guidance. Their departure is a significant change for the institution, but the Sisters will continue their mission in other ways, focusing on their ministries and the needs of their aging community.

In political news, former President Donald Trump has announced a May 17 event to rededicate the United States as “one nation under God”. The event will take place on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The announcement was made during the National Prayer Breakfast, an annual gathering of political, religious, and social leaders.

Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel has expressed his government’s readiness to engage in dialogue with the United States. However, he stipulated that such discussions should occur without pressure and without any intention of regime change. This statement marks a potential shift in the strained relations between the two countries.

Archbishop Thomas Wenski is advocating for a ‘permanent’ solution for Haitian refugees in the United States. He argues that a sudden departure of Haitians from South Florida and other parts of the U.S. would cause significant economic damage. The Archbishop’s comments underscore the need for a comprehensive and compassionate approach to immigration policy.

In organizational news, the Legionaries of Christ have elected Father Carlos Alberto Gutiérrez as their new director general. Father Gutiérrez will lead the congregation, which was founded in Mexico, on its path of renewal. His election represents a new chapter for the Legionaries of Christ as they continue their mission of service and faith.

In celebration of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month in the U.S., Catholic bishops across the country are acknowledging the milestone. This annual observance, which takes place in February, honors the contributions and history of African Americans.

In Rome, a restored fresco in an ancient church sparked controversy due to an unexpected resemblance. One of the angels depicted in the restoration bore a striking likeness to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. To end the controversy, the fresco has been painted over.

Archbishop Paul Coakley, president of the U.S. bishops’ conference, is urging the U.S. and Russia to renew the 2010 New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty. The treaty, which places limitations on nuclear arms, is set to expire on February 5th. Archbishop Coakley’s call is a plea for continued peace and safety.

In Slovakia, Catholic bishops are defending a 25-year-old agreement with the Vatican. This comes after a Slovak opposition party questioned aspects of the agreement. The bishops argue that the accord serves the common good of all citizens.

Finally, the New York Archdiocese has accused Chubb Insurance of waging a ‘shadow campaign’ and posing as the “Church Accountability Project.” The archdiocese alleges that the insurance company’s actions were deceptive and harmful.

David Ryan, a victim of clerical sexual abuse from Ireland, recently shared his story with Pope Leo XIV. Ryan expressed that he felt listened to and understood during the private meeting. This interaction demonstrates the Pope’s ongoing commitment to addressing the issue of sexual abuse within the Church.

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord was recently celebrated, marked by readings from the Gospel of Luke. This Gospel contains unique details and stories about the infancy of Jesus, including the event commemorated by this feast. The feast day serves as a reminder of the early life of Jesus and his presentation at the temple.

The Church in Mexico has outlined its goals for 2026, aiming to be a more united, synodal Church that is closer to the people. This comes in response to the significant challenges the country faces, including violence, poverty, and forced migration. The Church seeks to provide support and solidarity in these difficult times.

“Bernadette, The Musical” is set to debut in the U.S., bringing the inspiring story of Marian visionary St. Bernadette Soubirous of Lourdes to American audiences. The musical, which tells the true story of the French girl who had 18 visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary, has already been seen by over 400,000 people across Europe.

The question of Ellen Organ’s sainthood has been addressed, confirming that she is not a saint. Known as Little Nellie of Holy God, Ellen Organ has not been canonized by the Catholic Church. Despite her reputation for holiness, there are currently no plans for her canonization.